Barolo “Le Vigne Sibi et Paucis” DOCG 2016 · MAGNUM in gift box

Az. Agr. Sandrone Luciano | Piedmont
Az. Agr. Sandrone Luciano | Via Pugnane 4 | IT 12060 Barolo

05174116 · 1,5 l · 192,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping2 units available
Limitation of 1 articles per customer

The "sibi et paucis" project is Sandrone's answer to the question of what time does to a great Nebbiolo. Whilst other wines are released onto the market once they have reached the prescribed maturity, Sandrone keeps a portion of his Barolo in his own cellar for six years longer – not out of reluctance, but out of the conviction that Nebbiolo only reveals its true character after years of quiet evolution.

2016 is taking its time. A mild, partly dry winter brought an early budbreak, but a cool, rainy April and May slowed growth; flowering came slightly later than average, and ripening began late. It is not until the end of August and throughout September that the best days arrive, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees and cool nights. Harvesting takes place from 2 to 22 October across four vineyards: Vignane in Barolo, Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba, Villero in Castiglione Falletto and Merli in Novello – four plots with different soils, altitudes and exposures that only come together as a single wine through blending, following a philosophy that Sandrone has pursued since the 1990 vintage. Each plot ferments spontaneously in open stainless-steel tanks, and the ageing in LitersFrench oak tonneaux also takes place separately. Following its release in September 2020, the wine rests for a further six years in the estate's private library, in the Sandrone family's personal cellar.

The aroma unfolds gradually in the glass: wild cherry and liquorice, undergrowth, accompanied by distinct notes of violet and rose. On the palate, sweet, lush yet firm tannins that have not quite settled yet, red fruit and a crisp acidity within a powerful structure. The finish seems to go on forever. Ten years after the harvest, this Barolo is still developing, and in our view, its long drinking window will not begin before 2029. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Luciano Sandrone 2016 Barolo Le Vigne Sibi et Paucis has entered a wonderful stage of development. Secondary aromas of tar, liquorice, red rose, smoke and dried earth now emerge alongside a core of dark fruit, revealing the complexity that only time can bestow upon a Nebbiolo. The wine's mouthfeel has become significantly more refined; it has shed the robust density of its youth and has now become sleeker, more concentrated and more precise. At this stage, there is a wonderful sense of harmony, with the wine's structural elements fully integrated into a long and elegant finish." Wine Advocate

"The brilliant professor who brings history to life in the lecture theatre – this very wine reminds you why Barolo captured your heart from the very beginning. Power and intensity in perfect balance with a charm and presence that feel both timeless and utterly immediate; structured yet refined, with every note in exactly the right place. A milestone. History in a bottle." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Barolo Le Vigne Sibi et Paucis is an excellent choice, both for immediate enjoyment and for the next ten years or so. The 2016 is only just beginning to show the first signs of aromatic complexity and is a real delight. Deep red fruit notes, blood orange, pomegranate, spices, new leather, cedar wood and sweet pipe tobacco blend together in the glass to form a harmonious whole. Dynamic and full-bodied, with impressive depth and resonance on the mid-palate, the 2016 vintage is a true delight. Floral and citrus-like overtones linger in the brilliant finish." Vinous

"A brooding, dark and complex Barolo with aromas of earth, truffles, plums, forest floor, tar and a hint of pralines. Full-bodied, powerful and rich in extract, with dusty, velvety tannins and a full-bodied flavour that is in perfect harmony with refreshing acidity and a hearty, meaty character. Drink now or lay down." James Suckling